The Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Heather Humphreys TD, has today issued a statement welcoming the announcement that an agreement has been signed to establish a state-of-the-art film and TV studios at the old Dell site in Limerick, saying it will enhance Ireland’s reputation as a world class location for audio visual production.

“The Irish film and TV sector is in a phase of rapid expansion,” the Minister said. "This additional studio space will help the sector here to attract further major productions to Ireland, and will also provide an avenue to allow the domestic market to grow.

“The audio visual sector is employment intensive, supporting up to 6,000 jobs. It is underpinned by the Government’s tax relief scheme, Section 481, which was enhanced in last year’s Budget. I am committed to working with the industry to encourage further growth.”

Ardmore Studios original home in Bray has been home to the production of Tudors, Camelot, Penny Dreadful (pictured above) and Moone Boy, among other big TV hits. Recent feature films include Asterix (2011), Byzantium (2012), All Is By My Side (Jimi Hendrix biopic), (2013), Run and Jump (2012) and Frank (2013). However, the new deal will see the establishment of Troy Studios in Limerick, which is likely to share sales and management personnel with Ardmore.

“There is very positive momentum in the Irish film and TV sector, which I am keen to maintain and support,” the Minister added. "Today’s announcement follows the news earlier this summer that Pinewood Studios, one of the biggest film makers in the world, is setting up an office here.

“I would like to congratulate Limerick City and County Council and Troy Studios for their pragmatic approach in bringing this project to fruition. Ireland is already attracting some of the world’s biggest TV shows and films, such as Penny Dreadful, Vikings and Star Wars. When these shows come to Ireland, they hire local talent and crews and make a huge contribution to the local economy. The development of state-of-the-art studio space in Limerick will only enhance Ireland’s reputation as a world class production location.”